Release International

The authorities have launched a fresh attack on the Mennonite church in Ho Chi Minh City -- straight after Vietnam was allowed to join the World Trade Organisation (WTO).

Police resumed their harassment of Rev Nguyen Hong Quang's church on January 9, after a brief respite during talks to establish Vietnam's international respectability.

Officers broke up an early-morning prayer meeting, arrested 17 people and yet again demolished part of the church and the Quang family's home. Pastor Quang, a human rights lawyer, was not among those detained -- but his 12-year-old son Huy and his mother-in-law were. Pastor Quang and five other members of his church were jailed in 2004 for 'resisting officers of the law' and became known as the 'Mennonite Six'.

The 17 detainees were held for over eight hours. Compass Direct reports that some of the women were dragged by their hair; others were allegedly slapped. Huy and a second boy of 12 were interrogated separately: their interrogators threatened and screamed at them.

Meanwhile, a large group of police demolished a floor above the church meeting room, as well as a kitchen and bathroom at the rear.

Much of the building was demolished in July 2005, just before Pastor Quang was released from jail because, the authorities claimed, it had been constructed without a permit.

Last year, however, he was able to rebuild -- apparently with the authorities' knowledge. RI sources report that senior officials apparently prevented local authorities from harassing the Mennonites -- as the international community trained its spotlight on Vietnam. Once Vietnam had been allowed to join the WTO late last year, Ho Chi Minh City police wanted to 'get even' with Pastor Quang, according to Compass Direct.

• Praise God for the resilience and determination of Pastor Quang and his church in the face of continued harassment.
• Pray God's healing and comfort over the congregation of the Vietnam Mennonite Church, particularly over Huy and his young friend.

Back to top